Argentine Tango

Definition

Argentine Tango is a passionate and intimate partner dance that originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina. This dance style is characterized by its close embrace, intricate footwork, and strong emotional connection between partners, often accompanied by soulful music that blends European and African influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Argentine Tango evolved from a mix of various dance styles, including the Habanera and Candombe, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of immigrants in Buenos Aires.
2. In the early 20th century, Argentine Tango gained popularity worldwide, especially in Europe and North America, leading to the establishment of tango halls and schools.
3. The dance emphasizes improvisation and personal expression, allowing dancers to create unique movements within a set framework.
4. Argentine Tango is traditionally danced in a close embrace, fostering intimacy and connection between partners while allowing for intricate footwork and musical interpretation.
5. In 2009, UNESCO recognized Argentine Tango as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its significance as a cultural expression.

Review Questions

• How does the Argentine Tango reflect the cultural influences of Buenos Aires in its development?
  • The Argentine Tango is a product of the diverse cultural melting pot found in Buenos Aires during the late 19th century. It combines elements from European immigrant dances like the Habanera with Afro-Uruguayan rhythms from Candombe. This blending of styles created a unique dance that not only serves as a form of entertainment but also embodies the social struggles and connections within the working-class communities of that time.
• Discuss the significance of the close embrace in Argentine Tango and how it affects the dynamics between partners.
  • The close embrace in Argentine Tango is central to its emotional expression and connection between partners. This physical closeness allows dancers to communicate non-verbally, making subtle adjustments in their movements based on each other's lead. It fosters an intimate atmosphere where both partners share their feelings through dance, transforming each performance into a unique experience shaped by their relationship at that moment.
• Evaluate the impact of Argentine Tango's global popularity on its traditional forms and practices.
  • The global popularity of Argentine Tango has led to both positive and negative impacts on its traditional forms. On one hand, it has brought increased appreciation and accessibility to tango culture worldwide, resulting in vibrant tango communities. On the other hand, commercialization has sometimes diluted authentic practices, as many new dancers are introduced to simplified versions of the dance. This tension between preserving tradition and embracing innovation continues to shape the evolution of Argentine Tango as it adapts to contemporary contexts.

Related terms

Milonga:

A social gathering where people come together to dance tango, often featuring live music and a lively atmosphere.

Tango Music: A genre of music specifically composed for tango dancing, featuring instruments like the bandoneón, violin, and piano, characterized by its distinctive rhythms and melodies.

Candombe: An Afro-Uruguayan musical genre and dance that influenced the development of tango through its rhythms and expressive movements.